Representatives of the Alma-Ata Diocese Participate in Solemn Reception Dedicated to Russia Day

June 11, 2026. On the eve of Russia Day, a ceremonial reception marking the national holiday took place in Alma-Ata. The event was organized by the Consulate General of the Russian Federation in the Southern Capital.

Among the guests were representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, leaders of public organizations, heads and members of diplomatic missions, as well as representatives of the city’s academic and artistic communities.

With the blessing of Metropolitan Alexander of Astana and Kazakhstan and at the invitation of D.A. Turaev, Consul General of the Russian Federation in the Southern Capital, the following representatives of the Orthodox Church of Kazakhstan attended the reception: Bishop Gennady of Kaskelen, Chancellor of the Orthodox Church of Kazakhstan; Honored Cultural Worker of the Russian Federation and Head of the Culture Department of the Kazakhstan Metropolitan District L.E. Goricheva; and Director of the Central Sunday School G.V. Cherepanova.

At the beginning of the evening, the national anthems of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Kazakhstan were performed.

The Consul General of Russia, D.A. Turaev, then addressed the guests with welcoming remarks. In his speech, he emphasized the special importance of friendship, good neighborly relations, and strategic partnership between Russia and Kazakhstan. Dmitry Alexandrovich spoke about the results of bilateral cooperation, the development of trade and economic ties, and mutual investments. He noted that relations between the two countries encompass not only economics, but also education, science, culture, the preservation of shared historical memory, and humanitarian cooperation.

The attendees were also addressed by Zh. Abdrashov, Head of the Representation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Alma-Ata.

On behalf of the Head of the Metropolitan District and the entire Orthodox Church of Kazakhstan, Bishop Gennady congratulated those gathered on the occasion of Russia Day.

During the event, Consul General D.A. Turaev presented letters of appreciation to Bishop Gennady of Kaskelen and Galina Vasilyevna Cherepanova.

Following the official portion of the evening, guests were presented with a concert program featuring well-known Kazakhstani performers.